Slow Living for Chronically Ill People Series Week 7: Finding Joy in Small Moments
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When you're living with a chronic illness, life can feel overwhelming. But even in the hardest times, there’s joy to be found—in tiny, quiet moments. This week, we’re focusing on how to notice, savor, and celebrate those small moments of happiness that make a big difference.
Why Small Joys Matter
You don’t need a big event or perfect day to feel good. Little things—like the warmth of your favorite blanket, a kind message from a friend, or a moment of calm with a cup of tea—can lift your spirit and help you feel grounded.
Benefits of Noticing Joy:
Boosts your mood naturally
Helps shift focus from pain or stress
Encourages a more hopeful mindset
Simple Ways to Find and Create Joy
You can invite more joy into your daily life in easy, low-energy ways. Here are some gentle ideas:
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Create a Joy Basket: Fill a small basket with things that bring comfort or make you smile—like a favorite book, cozy socks, a scented lotion, or a comforting snack.
Keep a Joy Journal: Write down one small thing each day that made you smile. It could be the smell of your coffee, a bird outside your window, or a quiet moment of peace. .
Use All Your Senses: Light a candle, sip something warm, play calming music, or look at nature. Small sensory moments are powerful.
Take Joy Photos: Snap a photo of something that brings you joy each day—your pet, your favorite mug, the sky. It’s a fun and easy habit.
Connect with a Friend: Even a short voice message or text exchange can bring a smile.
Low-Energy Activities That Spark Joy
When you’re not feeling your best, these gentle activities can still bring comfort and happiness:
Coloring, painting or simple crafts
Watching a favorite cozy movie
Listening to a calming playlist
Watering plants or sitting in the sun
Doing a small creative activity, like writing a short note or arranging objects by color
Read a book
Tips for Noticing Joy in Daily Life
Slow Down: Give yourself time to notice the good around you
Celebrate Small Wins: Got out of bed? Ate something nourishing? That counts.
Make a Joy List: Write down 10 tiny things that always lift your spirits. Keep it nearby for hard days. You could even put on sticky notes and post all around so that you can see them in every room you visit.
Final Thoughts
Joy doesn’t have to be big or loud to be real. In fact, it’s often the little things—the ones you find in ordinary moments—that stay with you the longest. Whether it’s the scent of your favorite candle, a kind word, or the feel of sunshine on your skin, let yourself fully enjoy those moments.
You deserve joy every day, no matter how your body feels.
In this together,
Laura